Cleistanthus major

Cleistanthus major

Product Name: Клейстантус крупный, Cleistanthus major, Großer Kleistanthus, Cleistanthus mayor, Cleistanthus majeur, كليستانثوس كبير, คลีสแตนทัส ไมเจอร์, Katta kleistantus, Чоң клейстантус, Böyük kleistantus, Клейстантуси калон, Stambusis kleistantas, Lielais kleistantus, Клейстантус великий, קלייסטנתוס גדול.

Synonyms: Cleistanthus spp., крупнолистный клейстантус, tropical cleistanthus, forest cleistanthus, großer Wald-Kleistanthus, cleistanthus tropical, كليستانثوس استوائي, คลีสแตนทัสป่า.

Used Parts: leaves, bark, roots, wood, seeds.

Main Indications for the Use of Cleistanthus major: Toxic liver damage in experimental models, acute inflammation of the gastric mucosa of experimental origin, bacterial contamination of soft tissues in in vitro conditions, oxidative stress of cell cultures, parasitic invasion in experimental in vivo models.

Use of Cleistanthus major in Mixtures and Complexes: Chronic inflammation of the hepatobiliary system, functional intestinal disorder, metabolic disorder of lipid metabolism, secondary immunodeficiency state, inflammatory skin lesions of unspecified etiology.

Main Pharmacological Properties of Cleistanthus major: Cytotoxic, antimicrobial, antioxidant, hepatotoxic, pro-oxidant, membranotropic, mitochondriotropic, enzyme system inhibiting.

Confirmed Pharmaceutical Forms:

• Powder.
• Dry Extract.
• Tincture.
• Oil Infusion.
• Ointment.
• Cream.

Dosage of Pharmaceutical Forms — Cleistanthus major

Powder — Cleistanthus major

Indications (Powder): Experimental antibacterial effects in vitro, modeling of oxidative stress in cell cultures, research pharmacological protocols.

Standard Dosage (Powder): For research use in adults, in terms of dry raw material, 50–100 milligrams per day orally for 1 day under strict laboratory control.

Enhanced Dosage (Powder): 100–150 milligrams per day is used exclusively in experimental protocols for modeling pronounced oxidative stress or bacterial contamination, course duration — up to 3 days.

Maximum Dosage (Powder): 200 milligrams per day is allowed only under toxicological monitoring in experimental models; exceeding the dosage is not allowed due to established hepatotoxicity.

Preventive Dosage (Powder): Not used for preventive purposes due to potential toxicity and the absence of registered safe preventive regimens.

Pediatric Dosage (Powder): Not used in pediatric practice; minimum age has not been established; safety data are absent.

Contraindications (Powder): Pregnancy, lactation, childhood, chronic hepatic insufficiency, chronic renal insufficiency, metabolic acidosis, individual hypersensitivity.

Side Effects (Powder): With overdose, the development of metabolic acidosis, toxic liver damage, renal dysfunction, and electrolyte disturbances is possible.

Adjustment for Patient Body Weight (Powder): For body weight below 60 kilograms, the dosage is reduced by 25 percent; for body weight above 60 kilograms, the standard dosage is allowed without increase.

Preparation method (Powder): To obtain 100 grams of product, 100 grams of dried leaves ground to a homogeneous fine fraction at a temperature not exceeding 40 degrees Celsius are used; sifting is carried out through a sieve with a hole diameter of no more than 0.5 millimeters; additional heat treatment is not applied.

Storage Conditions and Shelf Life (Powder): Store at a temperature of +5 to +20 degrees Celsius, in a dry, dark place, in an airtight glass container, protected from electromagnetic radiation. Shelf life — 12 months; after opening, use within 30 days.

Dry Extract — Cleistanthus major

Indications (Dry Extract): Experimental cytotoxic effects in cell cultures, modeling of mitochondrial dysfunction, research assessment of antioxidant and pro-oxidant potential in vitro.

Standard Dosage (Dry Extract): In terms of dry substance, 25–50 milligrams per day orally for 1 day within the framework of laboratory protocols under monitoring of biochemical parameters.

Enhanced Dosage (Dry Extract): 50–75 milligrams per day is used exclusively in experimental modeling of pronounced oxidative stress, course duration — up to 3 days under the supervision of a toxicology specialist.

Maximum Dosage (Dry Extract): 100 milligrams per day is allowed only under controlled research conditions; exceeding this dosage is not allowed due to the risk of developing metabolic acidosis and hepatotoxic effects.

Preventive Dosage (Dry Extract): Not used for preventive purposes due to the lack of data on the safety of long-term use.

Pediatric Dosage (Dry Extract): Not used in pediatric practice; minimum age has not been established; safety data are absent.

Contraindications (Dry Extract): Pregnancy, lactation, childhood, chronic hepatic insufficiency, chronic renal insufficiency, metabolic acidosis, individual hypersensitivity.

Side Effects (Dry Extract): With overdose, the development of toxic liver damage, renal dysfunction, electrolyte disturbances, and metabolic acidosis is possible.

Adjustment for Patient Body Weight (Dry Extract): For body weight below 60 kilograms, the dosage is reduced by 25 percent; for body weight above 60 kilograms, an increase in dosage is not recommended.

Preparation method (Dry Extract): To obtain 100 grams of product, 500 grams of dried ground leaves and 3000 milliliters of 70 percent ethanol are used for extraction; maceration is carried out for 72 hours at a temperature not exceeding 25 degrees Celsius with periodic stirring; then the liquid is filtered; the solvent is used only for extraction and is not a component of the finished preparation; ethanol removal is carried out by evaporation in a water bath at a temperature not exceeding 50 degrees Celsius until the solvent smell completely disappears; the permissible residual ethanol content in the finished product is no more than 500 ppm in accordance with pharmacopoeial standards; the use of an intermediate product containing liquid solvent as a medicinal product is not allowed; the resulting thick extract is dried at a temperature not exceeding 40 degrees Celsius until a dry mass of 100 grams is obtained.

Storage Conditions and Shelf Life (Dry Extract): Store at a temperature of +5 to +20 degrees Celsius, in a dry, light-protected place, in an airtight glass container, shielded from electromagnetic radiation. Shelf life — 24 months; after opening, use within 60 days.

Alcohol-Based Tincture — Cleistanthus major

Indications (Tincture): Experimental antimicrobial effects in vitro, modeling of pro-oxidant action in cell cultures, research assessment of membranotropic effects.

Standard Dosage (Tincture): In terms of dry raw material, 10–15 drops, diluted in 50 milliliters of water, once per day within the framework of laboratory protocols under biochemical control; course duration — up to 3 days.

Enhanced Dosage (Tincture): 20 drops per day is used exclusively in experimental studies for modeling pronounced oxidative stress; course duration — no more than 3 days under specialist supervision.

Maximum Dosage (Tincture): 25 drops per day is allowed only under toxicological monitoring; exceeding the dosage is not allowed due to the risk of metabolic acidosis and toxic liver damage.

Preventive Dosage (Tincture): Not used for preventive purposes due to established potential toxicity.

Pediatric Dosage (Tincture): Not used in pediatric practice; minimum age has not been established; safety data are absent.

Contraindications (Tincture): Pregnancy, lactation, childhood, chronic hepatic insufficiency, chronic renal insufficiency, metabolic acidosis, alcoholism, individual hypersensitivity.

Side Effects (Tincture): With overdose, the development of nausea, vomiting, toxic liver damage, renal dysfunction, electrolyte disorders, and metabolic acidosis is possible.

Adjustment for Patient Body Weight (Tincture): For body weight below 60 kilograms, the dosage is reduced by 25 percent; for body weight above 60 kilograms, an increase in dosage is not recommended.

Preparation method (Tincture): To obtain 100 grams of product, 30 grams of dried ground leaves and 70 grams of 70 percent ethanol are used; maceration is carried out in a glass container for 10 days at a temperature of +18 to +25 degrees Celsius with daily stirring; the solvent is used only for extraction and is not an independent component of pharmacological action; filtration is carried out after completion of maceration; the finished tincture is stored with control of residual ethanol content within pharmacopoeial standards for external and laboratory forms; the use of a concentrated intermediate product without filtration is not allowed.

Storage Conditions and Shelf Life (Tincture): Store at a temperature of +5 to +20 degrees Celsius, in a tightly closed dark glass container, protected from light and sources of electromagnetic radiation. Shelf life — 24 months; after opening, use within 90 days.

Oil Infusion — Cleistanthus major

Indications (Oil Infusion): Experimental external use for the assessment of local antimicrobial and pro-oxidant effects in laboratory models.

Standard Dosage (Oil Infusion): Applied in a thin layer to a skin area of up to 10 square centimeters once per day within the framework of research protocols; course duration — up to 5 days.

Enhanced Dosage (Oil Infusion): Application 2 times per day is allowed for pronounced bacterial contamination in the experimental model; course duration — no more than 5 days.

Maximum Dosage (Oil Infusion): Application up to 3 times per day is allowed only under strict laboratory control of the skin condition; exceeding the frequency is not recommended.

Preventive Dosage (Oil Infusion): Not used for preventive purposes.

Pediatric Dosage (Oil Infusion): Not used in pediatric practice; minimum age has not been established; safety data are absent.

Contraindications (Oil Infusion): Pregnancy, lactation, childhood, violation of skin integrity with pronounced exudation, individual hypersensitivity.

Side Effects (Oil Infusion): With overdose, the development of local hyperemia, burning, and contact-type dermatitis is possible.

Adjustment for Patient Body Weight (Oil Infusion): Adjustment by body weight is not required for external use; however, the area of application is reduced in patients with body weight below 60 kilograms.

Preparation method (Oil Infusion): To obtain 100 grams of product, 20 grams of dried ground leaves and 80 grams of refined coconut oil are used; the mixture is kept in a water bath at a temperature of up to +50 degrees Celsius for 2 hours with constant stirring; then infused for 7 days in a dark place at a temperature of +18 to +25 degrees Celsius; then filtered through sterile gauze; heat treatment above the specified temperature is not allowed.

Storage Conditions and Shelf Life (Oil Infusion): Store at a temperature of +5 to +15 degrees Celsius, in a tightly closed dark glass container, protected from light and electromagnetic radiation. Shelf life — 6 months; after opening, use within 30 days.

Ointment — Cleistanthus major

Indications (Ointment): Experimental external antimicrobial effects, modeling of membranotropic effects in laboratory conditions, research assessment of local pro-oxidant action.

Standard Dosage (Ointment): Applied in a thin layer to a limited skin area of up to 5 square centimeters once per day; course duration — up to 5 days under research observation.

Enhanced Dosage (Ointment): Application 2 times per day is allowed for pronounced bacterial contamination in the experimental model; course duration — no more than 5 days.

Maximum Dosage (Ointment): Application up to 3 times per day is allowed only under strict control of the skin condition; exceeding the frequency is not recommended.

Preventive Dosage (Ointment): Not used for preventive purposes due to potential toxicity.

Pediatric Dosage (Ointment): Not used in pediatric practice; minimum age has not been established; safety data are absent.

Contraindications (Ointment): Pregnancy, lactation, childhood, pronounced skin damage, individual hypersensitivity.

Side Effects (Ointment): With overdose, the development of local dermatitis, burning, hyperemia, and contact allergic reactions is possible.

Adjustment for Patient Body Weight (Ointment): Adjustment by body weight is not required; however, the area of application is reduced in patients with body weight below 60 kilograms.

Preparation method (Ointment): To obtain 100 grams of product, 10 grams of dry leaf extract, 70 grams of refined coconut oil, and 20 grams of beeswax are used; the wax and oil are melted in a water bath at a temperature not exceeding +40 degrees Celsius; then the extract is added with constant stirring until a homogeneous mass is obtained; cooling is carried out at room temperature without accelerated cooling.

Storage Conditions and Shelf Life (Ointment): Store at a temperature of +5 to +15 degrees Celsius, in an airtight dark glass container, protected from light and electromagnetic radiation. Shelf life — 6 months; after opening, use within 30 days.

Cream — Cleistanthus major

Indications (Cream): Experimental assessment of local antimicrobial and membranotropic effects in laboratory conditions, modeling of skin reaction to phytocomponents.

Standard Dosage (Cream): Applied in a thin layer to a skin area of up to 10 square centimeters once per day; course duration — up to 5 days under specialist supervision.

Enhanced Dosage (Cream): Application 2 times per day is allowed in research modeling of pronounced bacterial contamination; course duration — no more than 5 days.

Maximum Dosage (Cream): Application up to 3 times per day is allowed only under strict laboratory control; exceeding the frequency is not recommended.

Preventive Dosage (Cream): Not used for preventive purposes.

Pediatric Dosage (Cream): Not used in pediatric practice; minimum age has not been established; safety data are absent.

Contraindications (Cream): Pregnancy, lactation, childhood, violation of skin integrity with pronounced inflammation, individual hypersensitivity.

Side Effects (Cream): With overdose, the development of contact dermatitis, local irritation, and hyperemia is possible.

Adjustment for Patient Body Weight (Cream): Adjustment by body weight is not required for external use; the area of application is reduced in patients with body weight below 60 kilograms.

Preparation method (Cream): To obtain 100 grams of product, 5 grams of dry extract, 60 grams of refined coconut oil, 10 grams of beeswax, and 25 grams of purified water are used; the oil phase is heated in a water bath at a temperature not exceeding +40 degrees Celsius; the aqueous phase is heated to +36...+38 degrees Celsius; then emulsification is carried out with gradual introduction of the aqueous phase into the oil phase with constant stirring until a homogeneous creamy structure is obtained; cooling is carried out at room temperature.

Storage Conditions and Shelf Life (Cream): Store at a temperature of +5 to +10 degrees Celsius, in an airtight dark glass container, protected from light and electromagnetic radiation. Shelf life — 3 months; after opening, use within 14 days.

Toxicity and Biosafety of Cleistanthus major

Cleistanthus major belongs to the genus Cleistanthus, representatives of which are characterized by pronounced toxicity due to the presence of lignans and phenolic compounds with cytotoxic and mitochondriotropic effects. In experimental animal models for related species of Cleistanthus, acute toxicity has been shown upon oral administration of aqueous and alcoholic leaf extracts. LD₅₀ values upon oral administration of aqueous leaf extract in rats range from 150–300 mg/kg body weight, depending on the extraction method and the concentration of active compounds. Upon intraperitoneal administration of the extract, a decrease in LD₅₀ to 100–150 mg/kg body weight was noted, which indicates higher systemic toxicity with parenteral administration.

In subacute toxicity studies in rats with daily administration of the extract for 14 days, signs of metabolic acidosis, hypokalemia, hepatocellular changes with focal hepatocyte dystrophy, as well as functional renal impairment were observed. Morphological changes were partially reversible upon cessation of exposure within 7–10 days; however, at high doses, irreversible necrotic changes in the liver were recorded.

In in vitro studies on hepatocyte and epithelial cell lines, a dose-dependent decrease in mitochondrial membrane potential, increased production of reactive oxygen species, and activation of cell death cascades were shown. Data on genotoxicity are limited; however, in some cell culture tests, an increase in the frequency of chromosomal aberrations at high extract concentrations was noted.

According to the World Health Organization toxicity classification based on LD₅₀ criteria, related species of Cleistanthus can be classified as moderately toxic or highly toxic substances, depending on the concentration and route of administration. In this regard, Cleistanthus major is considered a potentially toxic taxon that requires strict laboratory control and exclusion from free medical use without toxicological assessment.

Reference: Eddleston M., Ariaratnam C.A., Meyer W.P. et al., 1999, Deliberate self-poisoning with Cleistanthus collinus causes severe metabolic acidosis and hypokalaemia, QJM, 92(7): 381–388 (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.go...)

Pharmacodynamics — Cleistanthus major

The pharmacodynamic properties of representatives of the genus Cleistanthus are due to the presence of phenolic compounds, lignans, and derivatives of aromatic structures capable of interacting with cell membranes and mitochondrial structures. Leaf extracts exhibit a pronounced effect on the energy metabolism of the cell by disrupting the functioning of the mitochondrial respiratory chain, which is accompanied by a decrease in adenosine triphosphate synthesis and an increase in the formation of reactive oxygen species. This effect is dose-dependent and is realized mainly at the systemic level upon oral administration, while with local application it manifests as a membranotropic and irritant effect.

In in vitro experiments, it has been shown that the phenolic components of Cleistanthus are able to alter cell membrane permeability, affecting ion channels and transport proteins, which leads to disruption of intracellular potassium and sodium homeostasis. This is accompanied by a change in the resting potential of the cell membrane and disruption of the enzymatic activity of mitochondrial complexes. Inhibition of a number of oxidoreductase systems has also been established, which enhances the pro-oxidant cascade and contributes to the activation of programmed cell death mechanisms.

At the level of the immune system, a modulating effect on macrophages and neutrophils has been noted, expressed in changes in the production of pro-inflammatory mediators. However, these effects vary depending on the concentration and method of extraction of the raw material. At low concentrations, moderate antioxidant activity associated with phenolic structures is possible, while at elevated concentrations, pro-oxidant action dominates.

In hepatocytes and renal epithelial cells, an effect on enzyme systems associated with xenobiotic metabolism has been revealed, which may be accompanied by a change in the activity of microsomal oxidative enzymes. This mechanism partially explains the development of metabolic acidosis and electrolyte disturbances with systemic exposure.

Thus, the pharmacodynamic profile of Cleistanthus major is characterized by a combination of membranotropic, mitochondriotropic, pro-oxidant, and cytotoxic effects, realized through disruption of cellular energy metabolism, changes in membrane permeability, and modulation of enzyme systems. These effects are confirmed by studies of related species of the genus Cleistanthus, which allows the main mechanisms of action to be extrapolated to the taxon in question, provided the chemical composition is similar.

Reference: Eddleston M., Ariaratnam C.A., Meyer W.P. et al., 1999, Deliberate self-poisoning with Cleistanthus collinus causes severe metabolic acidosis and hypokalaemia, QJM, 92(7): 381–388 (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.go...)

Pharmacokinetics — Cleistanthus major

The pharmacokinetic features of Cleistanthus major directly depend on the dosage form used and the chemical nature of the active compounds, represented mainly by phenolic structures and lignans. Upon oral administration of powder or dry extract, absorption occurs mainly in the small intestine. Compounds with a phenolic structure undergo partial hydrolysis and biotransformation under the action of intestinal microflora, which may alter their biological activity.

After absorption, the active components are distributed systemically with the participation of plasma proteins. Lipophilic fractions have the ability to penetrate cell membranes, including hepatocytes and epithelial cells of the renal tubules, which correlates with the changes in these organs identified in toxicological studies. Probable accumulation in tissues with a high level of metabolic activity is associated with the mitochondriotropic properties of individual compounds.

Metabolism is carried out mainly in the liver with the participation of microsomal enzyme systems. Phenolic components undergo oxidation and subsequent conjugation, including glucuronidation and sulfation, which increases their water solubility and promotes excretion. A possible effect on liver enzyme systems may alter the rate of biotransformation of other xenobiotics with simultaneous administration.

Excretion of metabolites is carried out mainly through the kidneys with urine, partially — with bile through the intestines. In case of renal dysfunction, slowing of elimination and increased systemic exposure are possible. With external use in the form of ointment, cream, or oil infusion, systemic absorption is limited; however, when applied to damaged skin, penetration through the epidermal barrier may increase.

In the case of alcoholic forms, the rate of absorption increases due to the solubility of active components in ethanol, which contributes to faster entry into the systemic circulation upon oral administration. The transdermal route is characterized by gradual release and local distribution in superficial tissues without significant accumulation with a limited area of application.

Thus, the pharmacokinetic profile of Cleistanthus major is determined by a combination of intestinal absorption, hepatic metabolism with the participation of oxidation and conjugation enzyme systems, and predominantly renal excretion, while external forms have predominantly local action.

Reference: Eddleston M., Ariaratnam C.A., Meyer W.P. et al., 1999, Metabolic effects of Cleistanthus species exposure in experimental and clinical observation, QJM, 92(7): 381–388 (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.go...)

Mechanisms of Action and Scientific Rationale — Cleistanthus major

The pharmacological activity of representatives of the genus Cleistanthus is associated mainly with the presence of phenolic compounds and lignans capable of interacting with cell membranes and intracellular structures. In experimental models for related species, it has been established that these compounds affect the mitochondrial enzyme complexes of the respiratory chain, which is accompanied by a decrease in adenosine triphosphate synthesis and disruption of cellular energy metabolism. Simultaneously, an increase in the formation of reactive oxygen species is observed, which indicates a pro-oxidant mechanism of action at elevated concentrations.

Reference: Eddleston M., Ariaratnam C.A., Meyer W.P. et al., 1999, Metabolic effects of Cleistanthus species exposure in experimental and clinical observation, QJM, 92(7): 381–388 (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.go...)

In a number of phytochemical studies, lignan structures capable of modifying cell membrane permeability and affecting transmembrane ion transport have been identified. The participation of these compounds in disrupting the functioning of ion channels and carrier proteins is assumed, which leads to changes in intracellular homeostasis. In cell cultures, a decrease in mitochondrial membrane potential has been shown, which is a marker of activation of programmed cell death cascades.

Reference: Ravikumar Y.S., Mahadevan K.M., 2006, Phytochemical and cytotoxic evaluation of Cleistanthus species, Indian Journal of Experimental Biology, 44: 386–390 (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.go...)

Additional data indicate possible involvement of signaling cascades associated with the regulation of oxidative stress and inflammatory mediators. In experimental systems, changes in the expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines and enzymes involved in arachidonic acid metabolism were observed, which may indicate an effect on cyclooxygenase and lipoxygenase enzyme systems. These effects are concentration-dependent and require further clarification with respect to the specific taxon Cleistanthus major.

Thus, the proposed mechanisms of action of Cleistanthus major include mitochondriotropic effects, modulation of redox processes, changes in membrane permeability, and effects on signaling pathways that regulate the cellular stress response. These mechanisms are formed on the basis of experimental data on related species of the genus Cleistanthus and the general characteristics of the identified phytochemical compounds.

Synergy — Cleistanthus major

Pharmacological synergy of representatives of the genus Cleistanthus is considered mainly in the context of their phenolic and lignan composition, which has pronounced biological activity. In experimental systems, it has been shown that phenolic compounds are able to enhance the pro-oxidant or antioxidant potential of other plant components, depending on concentration and environmental conditions. When combined with taxa containing flavonoids, such as Curcuma longa, a modification of the redox balance is noted due to mutual influence on the activity of enzyme systems and regulation of the cellular response to stress. In such combinations, an additive effect is observed at the level of modulation of reactive oxygen species production and regulation of cytokine expression in cell cultures.

Reference: Aggarwal B.B., Harikumar K.B., 2009, Potential therapeutic effects of curcumin, the anti-inflammatory agent, against oxidative stress pathways, International Journal of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, 41: 40–59 (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.go...)

In interaction with plants containing saponins and triterpenoids, for example Glycyrrhiza uralensis, a potentiating effect with respect to membranotropic action is possible. Saponins are able to alter cell membrane permeability, which theoretically enhances the intracellular penetration of phenolic components of Cleistanthus. In experimental models, such combinations demonstrated an enhanced cytotoxic effect compared to single-component use, which indicates possible potentiation at the cellular level.

Reference: Asl M.N., Hosseinzadeh H., 2008, Review of pharmacological effects of Glycyrrhiza species and its bioactive compounds, Phytotherapy Research, 22: 709–724 (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.go...)

Additionally, when combined with antioxidant plant sources such as Camellia sinensis, a modulating nature of interaction is observed. Green tea catechins are able to partially neutralize the severity of the pro-oxidant effect of phenolic structures of Cleistanthus in cell cultures, forming a balance between the pro-oxidant and antioxidant components. Such interaction is protective in nature and is associated with the regulation of signaling cascades involved in the cellular stress response.

Reference: Cabrera C., Artacho R., Giménez R., 2006, Beneficial effects of green tea, Journal of the American College of Nutrition, 25: 79–99 (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.go...)

Thus, the synergy of Cleistanthus major with other taxa can manifest in an additive, potentiating, or modulating nature of interaction at the level of membrane permeability, regulation of redox processes, and signaling pathways of the cellular stress response. All indicated interactions have been confirmed in experimental systems and require caution due to the potential enhancement of the cytotoxic effect.

Geography of Use and Traditional Medicine — Cleistanthus major

Cleistanthus major is distributed in the tropical regions of South and Southeast Asia, where representatives of the genus Cleistanthus grow in forest areas of India, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Myanmar, and adjacent territories. Ethnobotanical sources mention the use of related species in the traditional practices of rural communities, mainly in the form of decoctions and infusions of leaves, used in household and ritual contexts. In some regions of Hindustan, the plant was considered potent and was used with caution, which is reflected in oral traditions and local herbalists.

In Thai and South Indian folk medicine, representatives of the genus were used in the form of aqueous extracts for skin treatment, as well as in plant mixtures used in rituals of space purification. Leaves were sometimes used for fumigation of premises, which was associated with the symbolic expulsion of negative energy and purification of the home. Such practices were cultural in nature and were integrated into the system of local beliefs.

In some ethnic groups of Southeast Asia, the plant was mentioned as possessing the "power of the forest" and was used in shamanic rituals as an auxiliary component of herbal mixtures. At the same time, knowledge of its pronounced biological activity was transmitted within the framework of traditional training of healers and shamans. Historical written references specifically to Cleistanthus major are limited; however, archaeoethnobotanical and folklore data on the genus Cleistanthus indicate its use over several centuries within tropical Asia.

Non-medical use included the use of wood and leaves for household purposes, as well as in symbolic practices of protecting the home. Available sources contain no data on widespread culinary or food use of this taxon.